First lesson on ecosystems for Year 9

1. New Topic:New Topic:
EcosystemsEcosystems
TopicTopic’s aim:’s aim: To learn aboutTo learn about
some major world ecosystemssome major world ecosystems

2. Key QuestionsKey Questions
 How do we define anHow do we define an ‘ecosystem’?‘ecosystem’?
 What are the worldWhat are the world’s major ecosystems’s major ecosystems
and where are they located?and where are they located?

4. Why are theWhy are the
biomes sobiomes so
different?different?
The Climate
This is the main
driving force in an
ecosystem. It
depends upon
latitude – how far
you are from the
equator. This
affects…
The Soil
How thick and nutrient-rich the soil is
depends upon the climate. This is
highest in hot, damp climates.
The Vegetation
It has adapted to suit the climate
and soil. Plants grow fastest and
thickest in a hot, damp, sunny
climate.
The Animals
They have adapted to feed on the
plants or each other, and to cope
with the climate.
which affects…
which affects…

5. WhatWhat’s it like at each biome???’s it like at each biome???
1.1. Tundra & Polar IceTundra & Polar Ice
2.2. Taiga & Coniferous ForestTaiga & Coniferous Forest
3.3. Deciduous & Mixed ForestDeciduous & Mixed Forest
4.4. Scrubland (Mediterranean)Scrubland (Mediterranean)
5.5. GrasslandGrassland
6.6. DesertDesert
7.7. Tropical RainforestTropical Rainforest
8.8. SavannaSavanna
Task: Match the
image of the
ecosystem to the
correct biome name.
Use your choropleth
map to help – there
are many clues in
their geographical
location!
Also jot down some
adjectives/examples
to describe their
biotic and abiotic
elements.

6. Which oneWhich one’s this? What’s it’s this? What’s it
like?like?